TOMMY GEMMELL last night paid tribute to the opponent who came close to wrecking his Celtic career.

West Germany’s legendary midfielder Helmut Haller died at home in Ausburg on Thursday at the age of 73.

And Lisbon Lion Gemmell had every reason to remember Haller.

Gemmell, 68, said: “If it hadn’t been for Helmut Haller, there is every chance I would never have left Celtic. He had a huge influence in me having a massive fall-out with Jock Stein.

“I was sent off while playing for Scotland against West Germany in a World Cup qualifier in Hamburg in 1969. I was ready to let fly when I was tripped from behind by Haller. I chased him and booted him on the backside – and off I went.

“Celtic were playing St Johnstone in the League Cup Final three days later and I expected to be in my usual left-back position.

“Jock Stein had been with the SFA party in Hamburg but didn’t say a word on the plane about my sending-off.”

Gemmell was dropped in favour of Davie Hay – and went to Parkhead the following day to seek an explanation.